Annual Report and Accounts 2009
Letter from the Chair of Samaritans
As I start my term as Chair I am constantly reminded of how
Samaritans continues to develop and remain relevant without losing
touch with its roots as a support for those in distress and despair
or at risk of suicide. I am also reminded that our presence in
society can provide comfort to those most in distress in so many
different ways.
The worsening economic situation in 2008 has highlighted the
importance of the services offered by Samaritans. Research shows
that unemployment can result in poorer mental health, such as
anxiety, depression and feelings of hopelessness – all of which
increase the likelihood that someone will think that life is not
worth living. Indeed a survey of calls to
Samaritans branches in November 2008 showed that one in ten
contacts concerned financial issues including worries about
unemployment, housing and debt.
2008 also saw the launch of Samaritans’ long-term strategy which
will give our work clearer focus and direction through to 2015.
“Taking the lead to reduce suicide”
builds on our long tradition of providing emotional support whilst
recognising the need to expand and explore new ways of responding
to the emotional needs of our society. The bedrock of our service
will continue to be the 24-hour support offered by volunteers via
telephone, face-to-face work both inside and outside of our
branches, email, SMS text, and letter. However we will also build
on the work that Samaritans does with groups, communities and
organisations to reach people at risk of suicide and suicidal
behaviour. Already volunteers are looking at new and innovative
ways of putting the new strategy into action at branch and regional
level.
I am very confident that we have the right strategy and the
right people to continue to make that real difference to the lives
of those people who are at greatest risk of suicide and
self-harm.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Steve Evans, the
outgoing Chair of Samaritans, for his tireless work over the last
three years. During that time the charity has seen major changes in
its governance structure, a steady improvement in its financial
stability as well as the launch of the new strategy. It’s a real
privilege to represent Samaritans as Chair, and my thanks must go
to all the dedicated volunteers across the UK and Ireland, the
Board of Trustees and to the excellent staff at the central charity
who work together to ensure that the service is available 24 hours
a day, 365 days a year.
Even as we have been looking forward to future challenges we
have continued to remember the life and achievements of our
founder, Chad Varah, through a tribute to him at our volunteer
conference in York in September 2008 and an inspirational memorial
service held for him at St Paul’s Cathedral in November. In 2009
Samaritans will launch an appeal which will safeguard his legacy in
the years to come.
We DO make a difference and our relevance today is as great as
when we were developed from Chad’s very special insight and vision
in 1953. I look forward to the exciting times ahead and in
continuing to ensure we remain at the forefront of providing
emotional support and comfort to those who have found the journey
through life too much to bear.
Sophie Andrews
Chair, Samaritans
Message from the Chief
Executive